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The Infiniti compact car -- to go into production in 2014 -- could take its cues from the Etherea motor show concept, but will be built on the versatile Mercedes-Benz MFA front-drive platform used for the Merc A-Class, B-Class and coming GLA compact SUV.
That would mean the potential for both petrol and diesel engines, with Mercedes-Benz continuiing a march towards higher performance and better fuel economy in small units. The car will be built in Austria by independent manufacturer Magna Steyr -- who also turn out the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, Peugeot RCZ and Mini Countryman.
It is too early to predict when the compact car will eventually join the Infiniti line-up being launched in Australia later this year. But Infiniti's local HQ has previously indicated their initial roll-out of three model lines -- the FX 50S SUV; the M sedans; and the G sedans that will follow in 2013 -- will later be joined by a luxury hatch, possibly some time in 2015.
Infiniti's Australia general manager Kevin Snell says the local HQ is very keen to see the hatch arrive, and says there is already interest from buyers.
“This Infiniti C-segment model is vital to our local market plans and we can’t wait to add it to our Australian catalogue,” Snell says. “This car will be a cornerstone in achieving our long-term plans. As with our yet-to-be-released all-new Infiniti G sedan – due here next year – we already have prospective customers enquiring about it.”
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